Sofia Pride cancelled amid fears of violence

A gay pride event in the Bulgarian capital Sofia scheduled for last weekend was cancelled following pressure from the city municipality and the country’s Interior Ministry.

Local authorities expressed concern that the pride parade could be attacked by extremis groups, who have recently clashed with protesters decrying the appointment of Bulgaria’s controversial new national security head. Human rights groups have criticised the authorities’ response, arguing they are simply pandering to pressure from the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.

Sofia Pride’s organisers said they have the support of the city municipality to stage the parade at a later date.